Introduction
Gender norms and expectations have been an acute issue for hundreds of years, with both women and men being limited to the stereotypes as to what they should feel and do. For example, one coming-of-age novel, I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter, written by Erika L. Sanchez, explores gender norms and how they influence women from Mexican-American families.
The readers observe the path of a dynamic heroine, Julia Reyes, who, through her pain and struggles, starts to embrace her identity slowly. As a result, the novel is an illumination of issues of how women are perceived in modern society. Through the character of Julia and comparison with her perfect sister, Olga, the novel highlights how traditional gender roles can be limiting and harmful, particularly for those who seek to define themselves on their own terms.
Gender Expectations in the Novel
The theme of gender expectations and the rebellion of the younger generation against the older generations permeates the entire novel. Growing up in a strict Mexican-American household, Julie is constantly criticized, which is especially exacerbated after the death of her sister, Olga. However, with her ambitious and rebellious nature, Julie challenges societal and cultural expectations. As the heroine says, “I’d rather live in the streets than be a submissive Mexican wife who spends all day cooking and cleaning” (Sanchez 16). This quote demonstrates the repulsion of traditional gender roles that are imposed on the young woman by her family. She refuses to conform and, instead, focuses on her own identity, trying to follow her dreams and passions.
Julie confesses, “I want to be independent. I want to be my own person, with my own life. I want to make my own choices and mistakes” (Sanchez 210). With such an attitude, the readers can see the heroine’s yearning for independence and freedom. Later, she says that her mother’s control and strictness “makes [her] feel like [she’s] drowning” (Sanchez 210). Thus, instead of being restricted and defined by others, Julie wants to be in charge of her own life.
Drawing a Parallel with Olga
One literary device used to reinforce the theme of the novel is the comparison between two sisters. From the start, the readers see that Olga and Julie are polar opposites. Initially, Julie describes her sibling as “Saint Olga, the perfect Mexican daughter” (Sanchez 9). This allows the readers to understand that the young girl was the epitome of perfection for the Reyes family. Olga was fond of “pink flowers,” was an obedient daughter, and was a diligent student with much potential (Sanchez 8).
Meanwhile, Julie is the complete opposite, being the daughter who does not try to “look remotely attractive,” uses vile language, and opposes her parent’s wishes (Sanchez 58). Although the audience soon realizes that Olga kept her secrets from the family, it does not diminish the difference between the two young girls. It proves the point that Olga was prepared to hide her truth from her parents in order not to disappoint them, which is why she is the perfect daughter, as was mentioned earlier. In contrast, Julie was true to herself, making her the most relatable and compelling character.
Flowers as Symbols in the Novel
Another literary device that helps explore the theme of the novel is symbolism. For example, constantly recurring flowers in the novel are representations of gender. In the beginning, during Olga’s funeral, Julie sees her sister wearing a bright dress with pink flowers, which she hates (Sanchez 8). Later, the heroine sees a “young woman in a flowered dress,” which makes her think that everything looks perfect (Sanchez 38). Here, the bright blooming flowers represent the excellence and femininity expected by society and Julie’s family from every woman.
Meanwhile, toward the end, the dynamic character of Julie explores nocturnal cactus flowers. According to the young girl, “A flower that blooms only at night sounds like something out of a fairy tale” (Sanchez 207). Such perspectives show that feminine nature can come in different shapes and colors, and it should not be limited to certain stereotypes and expectations. Julie’s adoration of the cactus symbolizes her internal growth and transformation. She is seen as a young woman who tries to accept herself.
The part of the novel that depicts the moment of Julie’s realization that nocturnal cactus is perfect is the most emotional one. This scene evokes a sense of wonder and admiration not only for the beauty of nature but for the beauty of women as well. The heroine embodies a kind of timelessness since she defies societal expectations and norms. Julie understands that perfection can take many forms and that it is not always what society expects it to be.
Conclusion
Hence, the work emphasizes how traditional gender norms can be constricting and destructive, particularly for people who desire to define themselves on their own terms through the character of Julia and comparison with her ideal sister, Olga. The entire book is infused with the theme of gender expectations and the younger generation’s rebellion against the more senior generations. The contrast between the two sisters is one literary device employed to support the novel’s premise. The readers can determine immediately that Olga and Julie are polar opposites. Symbolism is yet another literary method that aids in illuminating the book’s central idea. The most emotional passage in the book is the one that describes Julie’s epiphany that nocturnal cactus is ideal.
Work Cited
Sanchez, Erika L. I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter. Oneworld Publications, 2022.